squidder

[jfisher]

I posted before about conventionals and I really want to make the switch.
So I want to throw myself into the fire on this one. I want to learn on a squidder. I figure I'll be able to throw anything I want after that.Down the line I don't want to be afraid to throw a reel because its not magged or a reel because it has no level wind.

I also want a reel that is tankish and proven.
More over I figure I could learn on this reel then use it as a back up when I save up and modernize.
finally i'm a lil old school in the salt.
nice smooth reels in the fresh but
a metal daiwa 2600 from way back and a 710 in the salt. Got some history goin for it too.
I digress

What size do you all recomend?
RI
plugs 1.5 oz and up
rocky surf, breachways(jetties)
line of the "line for rocks" thread (i'm guessing mono of no less than 20#)
I was thinking the 145. Seems that it has plenty of line capacity. I don't know that the 146 does, especially if I have to cut back some frayed line.
since the 140 is the only one in production for the short time being, does anyone know of a place that has the parts to convert a 140 to a 145?
How does casting vary b/w the plastic and alum spools?
thx everyone